Abstract: Methods and systems for imaging the interior of a body part and self-focusing endoscopic probes for use therein are provided. The self-focusing endoscopic probe includes an array of optical fibers for transmitting light to illuminate the interior of the body part to obtain a corresponding reflected light signal. A first mechanism is provided for preventing a first portion of the reflected light signal from passing through a reflection plane so that sufficient focus is maintained over a predefined focal range. A second mechanism allows a second portion of the reflected light signal to pass through the reflection plane. A rod lens or an array of optical fibers transmits the second portion of the reflected light signal to a detector plane to form an image of the interior of the body part in the detector plane. An optical element substantially collimates the second portion of the reflected light signal into a beam having a cross-sectional area of a substantially fixed dimension.

Abstract: A method, system and light source provide concentrated illumination from a multi-fiber optical light guide suitable for use where intense illumination is needed. The light from a plurality of high-intensity light emitting diodes is physically coupled into a corresponding plurality of sub-millimeter diameter optical fibers. The optical fibers are combined with appropriate optics to form a flexible illumination system ideal for the intense illumination of small areas. This method and system are designed for applications such as medicine and dentistry where size, weight, wattage, lifetime, and operating temperature of the light source are important considerations.